Leeds United have tabled a substantial transfer bid in pursuit of Strasbourg captain Habib Diarra, according to fresh reports. The Premier League newcomers are believed to have offered just under £22 million for the highly-rated 21-year-old, signalling their intent to reinforce Daniel Farke’s squad ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
Strasbourg, who successfully fended off interest in Diarra during last summer’s transfer window, are now reportedly open to parting ways with their captain — but only at the right price. Club officials are said to be holding off on responding to Leeds’ offer immediately, as they anticipate a possible bidding war with other suitors circling.
Competition Gathers for Versatile Midfielder
According to L’Équipe, clubs from both England and Germany remain in close contact with Diarra’s representatives, monitoring developments and evaluating their own move for the dynamic midfielder. His ability to operate in multiple roles — from central midfield to wider attacking positions — makes him an attractive option for top-flight sides in need of tactical flexibility and squad depth.
During the 2024–25 Ligue 1 season, Diarra featured in 30 matches, contributing four goals and five assists. Having joined Strasbourg’s youth setup in 2018, he has since developed into a mainstay in their first team, amassing nearly 100 senior appearances and emerging as a leader despite his young age.
Elland Road Braced for a Busy Window
So far, Leeds have yet to complete a permanent first-team signing this summer, though a handful of players — including Rasmus Kristensen — have had their situations resolved, either through return or permanent transfers following loans.
Diarra would represent a significant investment and a major step forward in Farke’s plans to establish Leeds as a Premier League mainstay. The manager has repeatedly stressed the importance of meaningful recruitment to bridge the gulf in quality and resources between newly promoted clubs and their top-tier rivals.
Speaking to Transfermarkt in April, Farke addressed the financial challenge that newly promoted clubs often face:
“The Premier League has enormous financial clout… In contrast, many Championship clubs operate on tight budgets. To survive in the top flight, you need not only quality players and depth but also investment in infrastructure, scouting, and long-term planning. Without those essentials, competing at this level becomes incredibly difficult.”
If the bid for Habib Diarra is accepted, Leeds could be securing a player with proven experience, leadership qualities, and the versatility needed to thrive in the Premier League — all before their first ball is kicked in August.
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